Retrofittable power distribution system for a household

ABSTRACT

A power distribution system for retrofitting to a household or other building. The power distribution system includes a means for supplying energy to the power distribution system for an indeterminate period of time. The power distribution system further comprises a means for converting the energy supplied to the power distribution system into motion. A generator is operatively connected to the energy converting means and converts the motion produced by the energy converting means into an electric current. The electric current produced by the generator is used to power a high-load circuit. An alternator is also operatively connected to the energy converting means. The alternator is configured to convert the motion produced by the energy converting means into another electric current. The alternator transmits this electric current to a bank of batteries which stores the charge. An inverter is electrically connected to the bank of batteries and transmits an electric current from the bank of batteries to a low-load circuit.

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Ser. No. 11/472,041 filed may 21,2006 which is currently pending and names the same inventor.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable

MICROFICHE APPENDIX

Not Applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to the field of household power distributionsystems. More specifically, this invention comprises a retrofittablepower distribution system for delivering power to a household or otherbuilding via high-load and low-load power circuits.

2. Description of the Related Art

Various power distribution systems exist for household applications.Most households obtain power from a common electrical power grid as aprimary power source. Some of the other power systems serve as a back-uppower supply for the household when the household's primary power sourceis not functional. Most back-up power supply systems are stand-alonesystems which operate independently of the household's primary powersource. Gas-powered generators are the most common back-up power supplysystems. Gas-powered generators are generally activated manually when ahousehold loses power provided by the primary power system.

In addition, some power systems are auxiliary systems to assist thehousehold's primary power source. Some households obtain power from“renewable” sources to supplement power received from the household'sprimary power source. As an example, some households obtain power orenergy from solar or geothermal sources in addition to using power fromthe common electrical power grid. Although these alternative sources mayalso be used as a back-up power supply, households which utilize thesealternative power sources often draw power from these alternativesources on a continuous basis.

Although many power systems exist for serving various household powerand energy needs, there remains a need for a retrofittable power systemthat can serve both continuous operating and back-up power needs. It istherefore desirable to provide a retrofitted power distribution systemwhich can provide power to a household for both back-up and continuousoperation needs.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is a power distribution system for retrofitting toa household or other building. The power distribution system includes ameans for supplying energy to the power distribution system for anindeterminate period of time. The power distribution system furthercomprises a means for converting the energy supplied to the powerdistribution system into motion. A generator is operatively connected tothe energy converting means and converts the motion produced by theenergy converting means into an electric current. The electric currentproduced by the generator is used to power a high-load circuit.

An alternator is also operatively connected to the energy convertingmeans. The alternator is configured to convert the motion produced bythe energy converting means into electric current in a separate circuit.The alternator transmits this electric current to a bank of storagebatteries. An inverter is electrically connected to the bank ofbatteries and transmits an electric current from the bank of batteriesto a low-load circuit. As such, the present invention acts as an energystorage system.

Various energy converting means which are capable of converting energyto motion may be employed in the present invention. In one example, anelectric motor is connected to the household's electrical power source.The generator and alternator may both be coupled to the main pulley ofthe motor. In another example, a boiler and steam engine may be used torotate an output shaft. The alternator and generator may be connected topulleys on the output shaft. In yet another example, the alternator andgenerator are coupled to the main pulley of an internal combustionengine running on natural gas. The gas-combustion engine receives itsfuel supply from a gas feed line integrated with the household. Thereader should note that propane, diesel, or other fuel sources may alsobe used. Accordingly, a gas tank or cylinder may also be used to supplyfuel to the gas-combustion engine.

The high-load circuit includes high-wattage household loads such as thehousehold's air conditioner and low-wattage household appliances. Thegenerator is configured to supply high current 110 volt or high current220 volt power. The low-load circuit includes low-wattage householdloads such as televisions, satellite receivers, computers, and lighting.The battery bank runs a DC to AC inverter producing 110 VAC. This isrelatively “clean” low wattage AC power which is suitable for theaforementioned low-wattage household loads.

The power distribution system may be controlled by a main switch. Theuser turns on the main switch when high-load appliances are being used.The user turns off the main switch when only low-wattage loads are beingused. The main switch may further be integrated with the HVAC thermostatso that the energy converting means is activated when air conditioningor heating is needed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view, showing the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view, showing an alternate embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view, showing an alternate embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view, showing an alternate embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view, showing an alternate embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view, showing an alternate embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view, showing an alternate embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view, showing an alternate embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view, showing an alternate embodiment of thepresent invention.

REFERENCE NUMERALS IN THE DRAWINGS

10 electrical power source 12 switch

14 electric motor 16 main pulley

18 generator 20 alternator

22 pulley 24 pulley

26 belt 28 belt

30 high-load circuit 32 batteries

34 inverter 36 low-load circuit

38 water heater 40 boiler

42 conduit 44 steam engine

46 output shaft 48 gas engine

50 gas feed line 52 exhaust

54 solar collectors 56 solar storage tank

58 back-up preheater 60 pump

62 pump 64 alternator

66 generator 68 batteries

70 inverter 72 switch

74 low load circuit 76 high load circuit

78 heated water circuit 80 control valve

82 water supply 84 switch

86 generator 88 distribution panel

90 automatic transfer switch 92 high load transfer switch

94 distribution panel 96 high load transfer switch

98 electric motor 100 low load transfer switch

102 solar panel 104 fuse breaker

106 charge controller 108 generator

110 power distribution system 112 gas engine

114 alternator 116 generator

118 belt 120 inverter

122 DC control panel 124 jumper cable box

126 air compressor 128 batteries

130 cord reel 132 cord reel

134 solar panel 136 level adjuster

138 frame 140 wheels

142 magneto 144 cigarette lighter

146 charge controller 148 voltage regulator sensor

150 remote starter 152 timer

154 automatic transfer switch 156 voltage regulator sensor

158 starter 160 fuel tank

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention, a power distribution system for retrofitting to ahousehold or other building, is illustrated in FIG. 1. The powerdistribution system includes a means for supplying energy to the powerdistribution system for an indeterminate period of time. In the currentexample, the power distribution system receives electrical power fromelectrical power source 10. Electrical power source 10 may be thehousehold's primary electrical power source. For example, the householdowner may use the main power input to the household's primary electricalload center as an input to the power distribution system.

The power distribution system further comprises a means for convertingthe energy supplied to the power distribution system into motion.Various energy converting means capable of converting energy to motionmay be employed in the present invention. In the example illustrated inFIG. 1, electric motor 14 is used to convert electrical energy intorotational motion of an output shaft. Main pulley 16 is attached to theoutput shaft of electric motor 14 and rotates along with the outputshaft.

Generator 18 is operatively connected to main pulley 16 and converts themotion produced by the electric motor 14 into an electric current. Belt28 connects pulley 24 of generator 18 to main pulley 16 so that pulley24 rotates along with main pulley 16. The electric current produced bygenerator 18 is used to power high-load circuit 30. High-load circuit 30includes high-wattage household loads such as the household's airconditioner and low-load appliances. Generator 18 is configured tosupply high current 110 volt or high current 220 volt power. This is analternating current circuit.

Alternator 20 is also operatively connected to electric motor 14.Alternator 20 is configured to convert the motion produced by electricmotor 14 into another electric current. This is a direct currentcircuit. Belt 26 connects pulley 22 of alternator 20 to main pulley 16so that pulley 22 rotates along with main pulley 16. Alternator 20(which may also be a magneto or an AC charger) transmits this directelectric current to a bank of batteries 32 which stores the charge.Inverter 34 is electrically connected to the bank of batteries 32 andtransmits an electric current from the bank of batteries 32 to low-loadcircuit 36. It should be noted that energy storage devices other thanbatteries may similarly be used. The low-load circuit includeslow-wattage household loads such as televisions, satellite receivers,computers, and lighting. The bank of batteries 32 runs a direct currentto inverter 34 which converts the DC input to 110 VAC. This isrelatively “clean” low wattage AC power which is suitable for theaforementioned low-wattage household loads.

The power distribution system may be controlled by a main switch,illustrated by switch 12. The user turns on the main switch whenhigh-load appliances are being used. The user turns off the main switchwhen only low-wattage loads are being used. The main switch may furtherbe integrated with the HVAC thermostat so that electric motor 14 isactivated when air conditioning or heating is needed. Also, the systemstores power from the main power source for later use. This allows theuser to have the option of storing power during off-peak rate hours,like the middle of the night. Obviously, the system illustrated in FIG.1 would store energy anytime the high-load circuit is in use.

It should be noted that the present design allows for the use ofrelatively inexpensive, off-the-shelf components. For example, a 200 Aautomotive alternator, 3 hp electric motor, and pulley drive system istypically less expensive than a comparable 200 A AC to DC charger.

Another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 2.Boiler 40 is fluidly connected to the household's water heater 38.Boiler 40 produces steam which powers steam engine 44. Boiler 40 may beelectric or gas powered. The kinetic energy of steam produced by boiler40 is converted to rotary motion by steam engine 44. Although a steamturbine type steam engine is illustrated in FIG. 2, many different typesof steam engines may be used for steam engine 44. Rotation of theturbine in steam engine 44 causes rotation of output shaft 46 andpulleys attached to output shaft 46. Conduit 42 is provided forrecirculation of steam to boiler 40.

Similar to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, generator 18 isoperatively connected to a pulley on output shaft 46 and converts themotion produced by steam engine 44 into an electric current. Belt 28connects pulley 24 of generator 18 to the pulley on output shaft 46 sothat pulley 24 rotates along with the pulley. Although not illustratedin the present drawing view, a simple transmission system or gearbox maybe used to match the rotational speed of output shaft 46 to the designrequirements of generator 18. The electric current produced by generator18 is used to power high-load circuit 30. As in the previous embodiment,high-load circuit 30 includes high-wattage household loads such as thehousehold's air conditioner and low-load appliances. Generator 18 isconfigured to supply high current 110 volt or high current 220 voltpower.

Alternator 20 is also operatively connected to steam engine 44.Alternator 20 is configured to convert the motion produced by steamengine 44 into another electric current. Belt 26 connects pulley 22 ofalternator 20 to a pulley on output shaft 46 so that pulley 22 rotatesalong with the pulley. Alternator 20 transmits this electric current toa bank of batteries 32 which stores the charge. Inverter 34 iselectrically connected to the bank of batteries 32 and transmits anelectric current from the bank of batteries 32 to low-load circuit 36.As in the previous embodiment, low-load circuit 36 includes low-wattagehousehold loads such as televisions, satellite receivers, computers, andlighting. The bank of batteries 32 runs a direct current to inverter 34producing 110 VAC.

Yet another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIG.3. Gas engine 48 is a gas-combustion engine configured to combustliquefied petroleum gas, natural gas, propane or other gaseous fuelsource. Gas feed line 50 supplies gas engine 48 with a continuous supplyof fuel. If the household is plumbed for natural gas, gas feed line 50may be plumbed directly to the household's natural gas feed line.Alternatively, an integrated gas tank (such as that used with respect tothe portable embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9) may be used tosupply fuel to gas engine 48. Gas engine 48 exhausts byproducts of thecombustion process through exhaust 52. Starter 158 is provided forstarting gas engine 48. Gas engine 48 converts combustion energy intothe rotation of an output shaft and main pulley 16.

Similar to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, generator 18 isoperatively connected to main pulley 16 and converts the motion producedby gas engine 48 into an electric current. Belt 28 connects pulley 24 ofgenerator 18 to main pulley 16 so that pulley 24 rotates along with mainpulley 16. The electric current produced by generator 18 is used topower high-load circuit 30. As in the previous embodiments, high-loadcircuit 30 includes high-wattage household loads such as the household'sair conditioner and low appliances. Generator 18 is configured to supplyhigh current 110 volt or high current 220 volt power.

Alternator 20 is also operatively connected to gas engine 48. Alternator20 is configured to convert the motion produced by gas engine 48 intoanother electric current. Belt 26 connects pulley 22 of alternator 20 tomain pulley 16 so that pulley 22 rotates along with main pulley 16.Alternator 20 transmits this electric current to a bank of batteries 32which stores the charge. Inverter 34 is electrically connected to thebank of batteries 32 and transmits an electric current from the bank ofbatteries 32 to low-load circuit 36. As in the previous embodiments,low-load circuit 36 includes low-wattage household loads such astelevisions, satellite receivers, computers, and lighting. The bank ofbatteries 32 runs a direct current to inverter 34 producing 110 VAC.

Gas engine 48 (of FIG. 3) and boiler 40 (of FIG. 2) may also beactivated by a main switch like the electric motor embodimentillustrated in FIG. 1. The main switch may also be integrated with thehousehold's thermostat so that the main switch is turned on whenair-conditioning or heating is needed. When large appliances are notbeing used, low-load circuit 36 may run off the stored charge inbatteries 32.

The embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIG. 3 may be madeportable, so that the power distribution system may be transported fromone location to another. For example, gas engine 48, generator 18,alternator 20, batteries 32, and inverter 34 may be attached to a commonframe. Wheels may be provided on the bottom of the frame for easiertransport. Power cords may be provided for connecting high-load andlow-load circuits to the unit. For example, one power cord may beelectrically connected with the output of generator 18 for supplyinghigh wattage power for high wattage loads. A second power cord may beelectrically connected to inverter 34 for providing low wattage powerfor low wattage loads. Also a remote starter and/or a timer may be usedto control gas engine 48 (similar to the embodiment illustrated in FIG.9). Such a portable power distribution system may have particularutility in providing power for a campsite or other remote location whereelectric power is otherwise unavailable.

The benefits of the proposed power distribution system are numerous.Those that are skilled in the art know that the proposed powerdistribution system is easy to retrofit and integrate into the existingpower distribution systems of most households. In the electric motorembodiment of FIG. 1, the power distribution system may be integrated tothe household through the primary load center. The main power input lineto the household may be routed to electric motor 14 through switch 12.The outputs of the power distribution system from generator 18 andinverter 34 may be electrically connected to the appropriate householdcircuits. The proposed system provides many other benefits includingimproved generator longevity and efficiency. These benefits areachieved, in part, because the energy coming into the system is beingdivided into a portion which is used immediately and a portion which isbeing stored for future use.

In the steam engine embodiment, boiler 40 may be fluidly connected tothe household's existing water heater. As such, boiler 40 receivespreheated water from the water heater and heats the water further to theboiling point. The gas or electric heating elements of boiler 40 may bepowered by the household's main power input line or the household's gassupply line, respectively. The outputs of the power distribution systemfrom generator 18 and inverter 34 may be electrically connected to theappropriate household circuits using a prior art load distributioncenter.

In the gas engine embodiment, gas engine 48 is supplied fuel by a fueltank or the household's gas supply line. The outputs of the powerdistribution system from generator 18 and inverter 34 may beelectrically connected to the appropriate household circuits at thejunction box.

The proposed power distribution system provides both back-up power andcontinuous operation power capabilities. The previous descriptionillustrates how the power distribution system may be used for continuousoperation. For back-up power applications, the high-load circuit 30 andlow-load circuit 36 remain electrically connected to electrical powersource 10 so long as power is available. In the electric motor variant,generator 18 may be removed or disconnected from the system so thathigh-load circuit 30 remains powered by electrical power source 10. Asillustrated and described later with respect to FIG. 7, the powerdistribution system is electrically connected to low-load circuit 36through a switch. The user may turn the switch to the “on” position whenthe household is not receiving power from electrical power source 10,such as in a power outage. Batteries 32 then provide back-up power tolow-load circuit 36 through inverter 34.

If the gas engine embodiment or the steam engine with gas heatingelement embodiment is used, the power distribution system may serve aback-up power function for high-load circuit 30 as well. For example,the household may continue to use electric power source 10 to powerhigh-load circuit 30 and low low-load circuit 36 when electric power isavailable. When electric power is unavailable, however, the user mayturn a switch to the “on” position to activated a gas-powered boiler 40or gas engine 48.

The proposed power distribution system is particularly well-suited forhouseholds geographically situated in regions which routinely experienceblackouts and brownouts. The energy converting means may operate duringnon-peak operating times (i.e., times when the community's electricaldemands are not as high) in order to store energy for future use duringa blackout. It should be noted that the gas engine embodiment and thesteam engine with gas heating element embodiment may be operatedcontinuously in these geographic regions. It should be further notedthat even the electrical input variant may be used continuously as well.In the event of a power outage, however, the system would be unable tooperate high wattage loads. Low-wattage loads, such as the lighting maystill be used since these loads obtain their power from energy stored inthe bank of batteries.

FIG. 4 illustrates how solar energy may be used to preheat water in theembodiment illustrated in FIG. 2. Solar collectors 54 may be any type ofdevice to collect solar energy. In the present illustration, solarcollectors 54 are the type of solar collectors that capture thermalenergy. Solar collectors 54 capture direct radiation from the sun andtransfer the heat to a transfer fluid. The transfer fluid is preferablywater or a water-glycol solution. Solar storage tank 56 is used to holdthe transfer fluid once it has been heated. Pump 60 may be used tocirculate the transfer fluid through solar collectors 54. Pump 60 may beactivated by a controller which observes temperature readings fromtemperature sensors positioned near solar collectors 54. When thetemperature sensors indicate that the temperature is above a certainthreshold transfer fluid is circulated through solar collectors 54 andback to solar storage tank 56. Solar storage tank 56 is preferably wellinsulated to mitigate heat transfer through the storage tank walls.

Pump 62 transfers the fluid from solar storage tank to backup preheater58. Backup preheater 58 is used to preheat the fluid to a certaintemperature before sending the fluid to boiler 40. Backup preheater 58may be any type of heater or heat exchanger, including gas or electricpowered water heaters. Backup preheater 58 may be used as a backupsystem for heating the fluid during periods when an insuffient amount ofsolar energy has been collected. This may be necessary during rainyseasons or when the household's energy demands are unusually high.

FIG. 5 illustrates the embodiment of FIG. 4 integrated with other powerdelivery systems. In the current embodiment, generator 18 provides powerto the high load circuits of the household through high load transferswitch 96 and distribution panel 94. Inverter 34 provides power to thehousehold's low load circuits via low load transfer switch 100 anddistribution panel 94. Distribution panel 94 may be the household'sstandard distribution panel which also receives power through electricalpower source 10.

Switch 72 may be used to provide power to electric motor 98 fromdistribution panel 94. Electric motor 98 drives alternator 64 andgenerator 66. Generator 66 provides electric power to high-load circuit76. High-load circuit 76 may be used to power high-load appliances ofthe household (through a transfer switch and distribution panel 94) ormay be sold to the power company. Alternator 64 provides direct currentto batteries 68. Batteries 68 store power until needed. Inverter 70 iselectrically connected to batteries 68 and provides low-wattage AC powerto low-load household circuits via low load transfer switch 74 anddistribution panel 94. The low wattage power provided by inverter 70 maybe used to provide back-up power to the low load circuits supplied withpower by inverter 34 or it may provide electric power to a completelyseparate circuit. Generator 108 may also be connected to distributionpanel 94, preferably through a high load transfer switch, to providebackup power to the household in the event of a power outage or if thesystem breaks down.

The distribution system illustrated in FIG. 5 provides many advantageswhich would be readily apparent to one that is skilled in the art. Forexample, switch 72 may be automatically controlled to supply power toelectric motor 98 when the household is not otherwise utilizing itshigh-load circuits. This allows the household to “bank” additional powerin batteries 68 and/or sell power to the power company when high-loadhousehold appliances are not being used.

FIG. 6 illustrates a further improvement of the power distributionsystems of FIGS. 4 and 5. In this embodiment, control valve 80 may beactuated to divert the recirculation of water through conduit 42 toheated water circuit 78 where the thermal energy of the fluid may befurther harvested. Heated water circuit 78 may include many differentappliances and devices which utilize hot water. For example, heatedwater circuit 78 may direct the heated water to steam cleaners, hotwater underfloor heating systems, hot tubs or pools. Control valve 80may automatically controlled to divert heated water in conduit 42 whenhot water is demanded by these systems. When there is no demand for hotwater, the hot water may be recirculated back to boiler 40. Water supply82 provides additional water to the system as needed. If water is notconsumed by heated water circuit 78, additional water would only beneeded in the event the system developed a leak.

FIG. 7 illustrates how the proposed distribution system may beelectrically integrated into a pre-existing power distribution system.Distribution panel 88 represents a pre-existing distribution panel for ahousehold. Switch 12 allows power to be selectively provided to electricmotor 14 which powers a high-load electric circuit (through generator 18and high load transfer switch 92) and a low-load electric circuit(through alternator 20, batteries 32, inverter 34, and automatictransfer switch 90). Switch 84 is a combination switch which allows theuser to connect standalone generator 86 or generator 18 to the high loadhousehold circuits via high load transfer switch 92 and distributionpanel 88. Switch 84 allows the high load circuits of the household to bepowered by standalone generator 86 when distribution panel 88 is notpowered by electrical power source 10. Generator 86 may be remotelyactivated by a remote starter for greater convenience. Generator 86 mayalso be activated by a thermostat or timer.

Voltage regulator sensor 156 may be electrically connected to batteries32. When voltage regulator sensor 156 perceives that the batteries havea low charge (i.e., the voltage drops below a defined threshold),voltage regulator sensor 156 may activate electric motor 14 by actuatingswitch 12. This feature prevents the interruption of power when the useris only utilizing power supplied by batteries 32 and inverter 34.Automatic transfer switch 90 then routes power from generator 18 to thecircuits in distribution panel 88 which normally receive power viainverter 34. Furthermore, voltage regulator sensor 156 may also beemployed to deactivate electric motor 14 via switch 12 when voltageregulator sensor 156 perceives that the batteries have charged to theircapacity (assuming that household is not otherwise using power suppliedvia generator 18). At that point, automatic transfer switch 90 thenwould switch power back from generator 18 through inverter 34.

FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate a portable embodiment of the present invention.In this embodiment, gas engine 112, alternator 114, inverter 120,batteries 128 and generator 116 are attached within frame 138. Pulleyson alternator 114 and generator 116 are driven by a pulley on gas engine112 via belt 118. An integrated gas tank (as illustrated in FIG. 9 asfuel tank 160) provides a supply of fuel to gas engine 112. Frame 138 isattached to wheels 140 allowing power distribution system 110 to beeasily rolled from one location to another. Tracks, sleds, skis, orother objects suitable for transporting frame 138 across the ground canbe used in place wheels 140. Other components for the power distributionsystem are also attached within frame 138, including DC control panel122, jumper cable box 124 (which houses a set of jumper cables), aircompressor 126, and cord reels 132 and 130. These components will bediscussed in greater detail in relation to the schematic provided inFIG. 9.

Referring back to FIG. 8, solar panel 134 is provided on top of frame138. Level adjustors 136 allow the angle of solar panel 134 to be variedwith respect to the ground. This feature allows the user to adjust theangle of solar panel 134 to maximize the solar energy collectingpotential of power distribution system 110. Solar panel 134 may also bemade to be removable from frame 138 so that that solar panel 134 may beplaced at a different location than frame 138.

Although not illustrated herein, a simple suspension system may beprovided between wheels 140 and frame 138. In addition, a hitch ballreceiver may be attached to one end of frame 138. With the addition ofthese components, the portable unit may be coupled to an automobile,all-terrain vehicle, snowmobile or other vehicle and towed from onelocation to another.

As illustrated in FIG. 9, magneto 142 is provided to assist in thestartup of gas engine 112. A separate battery may be included to providestart-up power for gas engine 112. As mentioned previously, gas engine112 mechanically drives generator 116 and alternator 114. Fuel tank 160supplies fuel to gas engine 112. High wattage AC power produced bygenerator 116 is provided to cord reel 132. Alternator 114 provides a DCcurrent to batteries 128. Solar panel 134 also supplies batteries 128 DCcurrent via charge controller 146. Batteries 128 supply low wattage ACpower to cord reel 130 via inverter 120. DC control panel 122, which iselectrically connected to batteries 128 provides DC power to various DCdevices including, air compressor 126, jumper cable box 124 andcigarette lighter 144. By now the reader will appreciate that powerdistribution system 110 meets most of the power supply needs for a groupof campers. For example, the jumper cables housed in jumper cable box124 may be used to jump start an automobile. Air compressor 126 may beused to inflate a flat tire or other inflatable device. Cell phones andsimilarly adapted devices may be charged using cigarette lighter 144.Finally, cord reel 132 and cord reel 130 may be used to provide highwattage and low wattage AC power as needed.

Automatic actuation is a feature which may be added to any of theembodiments shown or described herein. For example, as shown in FIG. 9,voltage regulator sensor 148 may be electrically connected to batteries128. When voltage regulator sensor 148 perceives that the batteries havea low charge (i.e., the voltage drops below a defined threshold),voltage regulator sensor 148 may actuate starter 158 which starts engine112. Automatic transfer switch 154 then routes power from generator 116to the circuit that normally receives its power from inverter 120 (inthe present example, low wattage AC power cord reel 130). This featureprevents the interruption of power when the user is only utilizing powersupplied by the batteries and inverter.

Furthermore, the voltage regulator sensor may be employed to deactivatethe engine via an on/off switch when the batteries have charged to theircapacity. Automatic transfer switch 154 then routes power from inverter120 to cord reel 130 when the engine is deactivated.

Remote starter 150 may also be used to remotely activate or deactivateengine 112. This feature allows the user of such a system to activateengine 112 without leaving the comforts of his or her tent, cabin, orother building. An integrated timer 152 may be employed to automaticallydeactivate engine 112 after it has run for a set interval of time.Integrated timer 152 may be further configured to activate engine 112 atvarious pre-designated times.

The preceding description contains significant detail regarding thenovel aspects of the present invention. It should not be construed,however, as limiting the scope of the invention but rather as providingillustrations of the preferred embodiments of the invention. As anexample, generator 18 and alternator 20 may be operatively connected tothe energy converting means in various ways. For example, gears may beused in place of the pulleys and belts. In addition, the system andswitches may be computer controlled so that the user can set certainintervals when the components of the system would be used. Such avariation would not alter the function of the invention.

Furthermore, those that are skilled in the art will recognize that manyconventional components may be incorporated into the proposed powerdistribution systems to improve performance, efficiency, or safety. Forexample, as illustrated in FIG. 7, solar panel 102 may be used totrickle charge batteries 32 via DC fuse breaker 104 and chargecontroller 106. This will help maintain the batteries at full chargeeven when alternator 20 is idle. Also, it may be desirable to employisolators, voltage regulators and other common electrical components forimproved functionality.

The different drawing views are intended to provide examples of how theproposed retrofittable power system may be integrated to a household orother building. Although it is not illustrated in all of the drawingviews, it is generally desirable to supply power to the high and lowload circuits via transfer switches (such as in the examples illustratedin FIGS. 5 and 7). This allows the power to be supplied to the circuitswithout feeding power back onto the utility line. Likewise, componentsshown in the separate drawing views may be incorporated in a commonsystem to combine the functionalities afforded by the variouscomponents. For example, a stand alone generator may be used in eachsystem to provide backup power to the household. Also, heated watercircuit 78 may be incorporated into the systems illustrated in FIG. 4 orFIG. 5 or in any other system utilizing steam engine 44. The variousdrawing views are not intended to be exhaustive of the possibleconfigurations of the present invention. Thus, the scope of theinvention should be fixed by the following claims, rather than by theexamples given.

1. A power distribution and storage system for a household or other building, comprising: a. a first means for supplying energy to said power distribution system for an indeterminate period of time; b. a second means for converting said energy supplied to said power distribution system into motion; c. a generator operatively connected to said second means, said generator configured to convert said motion produced by said second means into a first electric current transmitted to a high-load circuit, wherein said first electric current is a high wattage alternating current; d. an alternator operatively connected to said second means, said alternator configured to convert said motion produced by said second means into a second electric current transmitted to a battery, wherein said second electric current is a direct current; and e. an inverter electrically connected to said battery, said inverter configured to transform direct current from said second electric current or said battery into a low-wattage alternating current which is then fed to a low-load circuit.
 2. The power distribution system of claim 1, said second means further comprising a steam engine, said steam engine configured to convert energy provided by a fluid into motion.
 3. The power distribution system of claim 2, said first means comprising a solar collector configured to preheat said fluid before said fluid is transmitted to said steam engine.
 4. The power distribution system of claim 3, further comprising a boiler configured to vaporize said fluid after said fluid is preheated by said solar collector.
 5. The power distribution system of claim 2, further comprising a boiler configured to vaporize said fluid before transmitting said fluid to said steam engine.
 6. The power distribution system of claim 1, wherein said high-load circuit further comprises an air conditioner configured to cool said household.
 7. The power distribution system of claim 1, wherein said high-load circuit further comprises high wattage household loads.
 8. The power distribution system of claim 1, wherein said low-load circuit further comprises a television.
 9. The power distribution system of claim 8, wherein said low-load circuit further comprises low wattage household loads.
 10. The power distribution system of claim 1, wherein said low-load circuit further comprises lighting configured to illuminate the interior of said household.
 11. The power distribution system of claim 2, wherein said steam engine further comprises a turbine configured to rotate an output shaft.
 12. The power distribution system of claim 1, wherein said high-load circuit further comprises an electric motor.
 13. The power distribution system of claim 12, wherein said high-load circuit comprises a switch having an on position and an off position, wherein when said switch is in said on position, current is transmitted to said electric motor.
 14. The power distribution system of claim 13, wherein said switch is automatically actuated to said on position when said household or building is not otherwise using said high-load circuit to provide power to high-wattage loads.
 15. The power distribution system of claim 2, further comprising a conduit configured to transmit said fluid away from said steam engine after said fluid passes through said steam engine.
 16. The power distribution system of claim 15, wherein said conduit is configured to recirculate said fluid back to a position upstream of said steam engine.
 17. The power distribution system of claim 15, wherein said conduit transmits said fluid to a heated water circuit, wherein said thermal energy of said fluid is further harvested.
 18. The power distribution system of claim 15, further comprising: a. a conduit configured to transmit said fluid away from said steam engine after said fluid passes through said steam engine; b. a control valve downstream of said conduit, said control valve having a first position and a second position; c. wherein when said control valve is in said first position, said fluid passing through said conduit is further transmitted to a heated water circuit, said heated water circuit configured to further harvest said thermal energy of said fluid; and d. wherein when said control valve is in said second position, said fluid passing through said conduit is recirculated to a position upstream of said steam engine.
 19. The power distribution system of claim 1, wherein said second means is actuated by a thermostat.
 20. The power distribution system of claim 1, wherein said first means, said second means, said generator, said alternator, and said inverter are attached to a common frame so that said first means, said second means, said generator, and said alternator may be readily transported together from one location to another.
 21. The power distribution system of claim 20, further comprising a plurality of wheels operatively attached to said common frame such that said power distribution system can be rolled across the ground.
 22. The power distribution system of claim 20, further comprising an automatic actuation means for actuating said second means when the charge of said battery drops below a defined threshold.
 23. The power distribution system of claim 1, wherein said power distribution system is configured to simultaneously store a charge in said battery while said generator produces said first electric current.
 24. The power distribution system of claim 1, further comprising an automatic actuation means for actuating said second means when the charge of said battery drops below a defined threshold.
 25. The power distribution system of claim 1, further comprising a solar panel, said solar panel configured to charge said battery.
 26. The power distribution system of claim 2, further comprising a. a boiler configured to vaporize said fluid before transmitting said fluid to said steam engine; and b. a hot water heater upstream of said boiler, said hot water heater configured to preheat said fluid before transmitting said fluid to said boiler.
 27. The power distribution system of claim 24, further comprising an automatic deactivation means for deactivating said second means after said batteries have charged.
 28. The power distribution system of claim 1, further comprising an automatic transfer switch configured to transfer power from said generator to said low load circuit.
 29. The power distribution system of claim 24, further comprising an automatic transfer switch configured to transfer power from said generator to said low load circuit after said automated actuation means actuates said second means.
 30. The power distribution system of claim 1, further comprising a remote starter, said remote starter configured to permit actuation of said second means from a location remote to said second means.
 31. The power distribution system of claim 20, further comprising a remote starter, said remote starter configured to permit actuation of said second means from a location remote to said second means.
 32. The power distribution system of claim 31, further comprising a timer, said timer configured to deactivate said second means after said second means runs for a designated interval of time.
 33. The power distribution system of claim 20, further comprising a set of jumper cables, said jumper cables configured to electrically connect to said battery.
 34. The power distribution system of claim 20, further comprising a DC control panel electrically connected to said battery, said DC control panel configured to supply direct current to a DC-powered device from said battery.
 35. The power distribution system of claim 20, wherein said battery and said inverter are attached to said common frame.
 36. The power distribution system of claim 32, wherein said timer is further configured to activate said second means at a pre-designated time. 